How Does a Stereo Microscope Work?

A stereo microscope（https://www.cqscopelab.com/stereo-microscope）, unlike its compound counterpart, utilizes a dual-optical system to provide a three-dimensional view of an object. This means it employs two separate optical paths, each with its own objective lens and eyepiece.  

Here’s a simplified breakdown of how it works:

Light Source: Light is directed onto the specimen, either from above (incident light) or below (transmitted light).
Objective Lenses: Each objective lens collects light reflected from the specimen from a slightly different angle.
Optical Paths: The light collected by each objective lens travels through its respective optical path, which includes intermediate lenses and prisms.
Eyepieces: The light from both paths converges at the eyepieces, where it forms two slightly different images.  

This unique optical system allows for a detailed, depth-perceived view of the specimen, making it ideal for tasks requiring precision and manipulation, such as dissection or assembly.